You may have heard that it’s very easy to grow an avocado tree from seed. And whoever told you that is absolutely correct! We’ve gone through so many avocados from meal prep I wish we started keeping our avocado pits sooner.

These plants are super cute and can make for a nice gift! Read along to learn how to grow them.

You can watch my reel on how to grow an avocado tree from seed here.

Step 1: Clean and peel your avocado seed

First you will want to clean any avocado fruit off your seed with water. This is to make sure you don’t get any growth from bacteria or fungi. You can even use a little dish soap.

After washing, leave the avocado seed to air dry so that the brown skin surrounding the pit feels flaky to touch. This can take 1 to 2 days to fully dry. Once the brown skin is dry it’s much easier to peel off.

Go ahead and peel off the brown skin. You don’t need it. In fact, seeds with the skin increase risk of infection and rot. Another plus, peeled seeds seem to germinate quicker!

Step 2: Wrap your avocado seed in a wet paper towel

Next, you will need to wrap your avocado seed in a wet paper towel. This is my favorite method for propagating seeds because you set it and forget it. I personally don’t like the direct to water method because you have to worry about changing the water regularly.

Place your wrapped avocado seed in a sealable plastic bag to maintain moisture. This will encourage your seed to break open, and reach for the water. Make sure to keep your seed propagation bag out of direct sunlight. Personally, I put mine in a cabinet.

Reminder: Write the date on your bag, especially if you’re growing multiple at the same time. That way you know which is which!

Step 3: Wait for your avocado seed to sprout

It can take 2 to 8 weeks for your avocado seed to sprout, so be patient. Begin checking on your avocado seed every 2 weeks to see if it has cracked open.

Don’t be alarmed if your avocado seed doesn’t sprout. Sometimes you will get a dud and that’s okay. It’s not you, it’s the seed! I’ve gotten some duds using the exact same technique. Grab another seed and try again!

Step 4: Place your avocado seed root in water

Now that you have a root, it’s time to place it in water. Suspend your newly sprouted avocado seed above water using a jar or small container.

Here is the link to the jars that I use. I get these from Michael’s for a STEAL. They’re about $2 but Michael’s is always running promotions of 20-25% off. Not only are they cheap, but I don’t need to do anything extra like add toothpicks or a propagation cone. The avocado seed will just sit on top.

Step 5: Pot your avocado tree in soil

This final step is optional. Your avocado seed can continue to thrive in water. If you like the look of it in a jar, then hey keep it in the jar!

If you’re looking to pot your avocado tree you’ll need the right soil. Avocado trees like loose, well-draining soil. Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil is perfect for this. You can view my other plant parent favorites here. Pot your seed at the top off the soil so that the top half of the seed is still exposed.

Place your avocado tree in bright, direct light like on a window sill. And tada, you’ve got yourself a new plant. Enjoy!

Common questions about growing avocado trees from seed

You may have extra questions about growing an avocado tree from seed and I have answers!

Will my avocado tree bear fruit?

This is unlikely. Its takes avocado trees 10+ years to mature and produce actual avocados. On top of that you’ll need the right climate which would be difficult to recreate indoors. If you live in a tropical area, then perhaps!

When should I water my avocado tree?

Avocado trees are tropical plants so they like water, but not too much water. Water your avocado plant twice weekly and allow it to dry out inbetween waterings.

Why are my avocado tree leaves turning brown and yellow?

This can be a sign of overwatering or root rot. To avoid this, only water when the soil dries out. Consider using a moisture meter or soil probe to monitor the dampness before watering.

If you’re a big overwaterer, try adding a rock layer to the bottom of your planter to act as a buffer.

Brown leaves can be a sign of mineral build up. Make sure your planter has good drainage. Poke holes in your soil every once in a while to improve air flow and the way water passes through.

Will my avocado tree survive with Winter?

Yes! As long as you keep it indoors. If you’re not getting enough sunlight in your home, you can consider getting a grow light to supplement the sunlight it’s missing out on.

How do I get my avocado tree bushier?

Pruning is the key! It may seem counteractive to cut off a leaf or two, but this actually encourages your avocado tree to make more leaves.

How do I get rid of bugs and pests on my avocado tree?

Like all plants, avocado trees need pest management. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth on soil and wiping leaves with neem oil are very effective for getting rid of pests and keeping them at bay.

Have more questions? Use the comment box below and I’ll try my best to answer!

Thanks for reading and happy growing!

xx Sheila Marie